Army Neutralizes Top Daulah Islamiya-Maute Leader Linked to MSU Bombing in Lanao del Sur Clash

BACOLOD-KALAWI, LANAO DEL SUR — In a major breakthrough in the government’s ongoing campaign against terrorism, military forces successfully neutralized Nasser Daud, a top leader of the Daulah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG), during an armed encounter on May 9, 2025.

Daud, also known by his aliases "@Mas’od/Mahater," was the most wanted figure on the military’s Periodic Status Report (PSR #1) and was believed to be directly involved in the December 3, 2023, bombing at the Mindanao State University (MSU) Gym in Marawi City a tragic incident that left the nation in mourning.

The clash took place in the rugged terrain of Barangay Tambo, Bacolod-Kalawi, Lanao del Sur, where troops from the 51st Infantry (Fuerte Uno) Battalion, under the operational control of the 103rd Infantry (Haribon) Brigade, engaged Daud in a brief but intense 15-minute firefight. He was killed in the encounter.

Soldiers recovered several items from the scene, including a Colt M16A1 rifle, 92 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, three steel magazines, an ISIS flag, a Baofeng radio, three cellphones, a backpack, and other personal belongings.

“This is a significant victory not only for our troops but for the entire province,” said Brigadier General Billy O. Dela Rosa, Commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade. “The neutralization of Nasser Daud is a clear message to terrorist elements that we will not tolerate their presence or actions in Lanao del Sur.”

Following the operation, Brig. Gen. Dela Rosa ordered nearby units to remain on high alert to guard against possible retaliatory attacks and to conduct pursuit operations in the surrounding areas.

Major General Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., Commander of Joint Task Force Zampelan, praised the successful operation, highlighting the discipline and courage of the troops involved.

“This achievement reflects the relentless commitment of our forces to ensure justice for the victims of the MSU bombing and to dismantle terror networks operating in Mindanao,” said Maj. Gen. Barroquillo. “Our efforts will continue until the threat posed by Daulah Islamiya Maute and its affiliates is fully eradicated.”

The death of Daud is expected to deal a significant blow to the operational capabilities of IS-East Asia in the region, as the military continues its intensified efforts to bring lasting peace and security to Mindanao.